im, gradually grew calmer. The cantors, in all the
dignity of their white surplices, went on in somewhat uncertain voices,
and the serpent itself seemed hoarse, as if the instrument had been
weeping; the priest, however, raised his hand, as a sign for them to be
still, and went and stood on the chancel steps, when everybody was
silent, immediately.

After a few remarks on what had just taken place, which he attributed to
a miracle, he continued, turning to the seats where the carpenter's
guests were sitting:

"I especially thank you, my dear sisters, who have come from such a
distance, and whose presence among us, whose evident faith and ardent
piety have set such a salutary example to all. You have edified my
parish; your emotion has warmed all hearts; without you, this great day
would not, perhaps, have had this really divine character. It is
sufficient, at times, that there should be one chosen to keep in the
flock, to make the whole flock blessed."

His voice failed him again, from emotion, and he said no more, but
concluded the service.

Then they all left the church as quickly as possible, and the children
themselves were restless, as they were tired with such a prolonged
tension of the mind. Besides that, they were hungry, and by degrees they
all left the churchyard, to see about dinner.

There was a crowd outside, a noisy crowd, a babel of loud voices, where
the shrill Norman accent was discernible. The villagers formed two
ranks, and when the children appeared, each family seized its own.

The whole houseful of women caught hold of Constance, surrounded her and
kissed her, and Rosa was especially demonstrative. At last she took hold
of one hand, while Madame Tellier held the other, and Raphaele and
Fernande held up her long muslin petticoat, so that it might not drag in
the dust; Louise and Flora brought up the rear with Madame Rivet, and
the child, who was very silent and thoughtful, set off home, in the
midst of this guard of honor.

The dinner was served in the workshop, on long boards supported by
trestles, and through the open door they could see all the enjoyment
that was going on. Everywhere they were feasting, and through every
window were to be seen tables surrounded by people in their Sunday best,
and a cheerful noise was heard in every house, while the men were
sitting in their shirt-sleeves, drinking cider, glass after glass.

In the carpenter's house, their gaiety maintained somewhat of an